CBET Patient Monitoring Systems 4

Question 1

A capnograph displays an abnormally low ETCO2 reading with a shark-fin waveform shape. What condition does this most likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

Bronchospasm or partial airway obstruction

Answer

A shark-fin capnogram waveform indicates obstructed exhalation, classically seen in bronchospasm or COPD exacerbation.

Question 2

During routine calibration of a bedside monitor's SpO2 sensor, a BMET notices the oximeter reads 98% on a patient confirmed by ABG to have SaO2 of 84%. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Elevated carboxyhemoglobin levels

Answer

Pulse oximetry cannot differentiate oxyhemoglobin from carboxyhemoglobin, causing falsely elevated SpO2 readings in CO poisoning.

Question 3

A nurse reports that a patient's invasive arterial line is showing an overdamped waveform. Which of the following is the BEST corrective action?

Accepted Answer

Check for air bubbles, clots, or kinked tubing in the system

Answer

Overdamping is most commonly caused by air bubbles, clots, or mechanical occlusion that attenuates pressure wave transmission.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of the fast flush test (square wave test) performed on an invasive hemodynamic monitoring system?

Accepted Answer

To assess the dynamic frequency response and damping coefficient of the system

Answer

The square wave test evaluates dynamic response by analyzing the oscillations after a fast flush to determine if the system is adequately damped.

Question 5

A neonatal ICU monitor alarm activates for a SpO2 reading of 80%. The BMET verifies equipment function is normal. What physiological artifact is LEAST likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Elevated fetal hemoglobin concentration

Answer

Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) has similar optical absorption properties to adult hemoglobin at standard oximetry wavelengths and does not significantly cause inaccurate SpO2 readings.

CBET - Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician Practice Test

CBET - Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician Practice Test

CBET Patient Monitoring Systems 4